Innovative start-ups: the Fiscal news of 2025
Starting in 2025, new incentives are introduced for investments in innovative start-ups and innovative SMEs. Laws 162/2024 and 193/2024 introduce significant changes, enhancing incentives for those who invest in these emerging businesses.
“De Minimis” Tax Deduction for Innovative Start-ups
The big news concerns the increased “de minimis” tax deduction for investments in innovative start-ups.
- Until 2024, the rate was 50%
- From 2025, the deduction increases up to 65%
Conditions to the application of the maxi facilitation:
- The 65% deduction is valid only in the first 3 years of registration with the Register of Companies
- The investment must be maintained for at least 3 years
- The investment should not exceed €100,000
- The investment shall not produce a qualified holding of more than 25% of the share capital or governance rights
- The taxpayer is also not a provider of services to the start-up, either directly or also through a subsidiary or associated company, for a turnover of more than 25% of the investment brought in
The news for Innovative SMEs
Abrogation of the “De Minimis” deduction
For innovative SMEs, however, the tax break is repealed as of 2025. It will no longer be possible to take the “de minimis” deduction for investments in these enterprises.
Other legislative news
Extension of stay on the Innovative Start-up Register
Law 193/2024 introduces a new extension of permanence in Innovative Start-ups. Companies can remain registered in the Innovative Start-ups Register for up to 5 years if they meet at least one of the following requirements:
- Higher than 50% increase in revenue or employment between years 2 and 3.
- Research and development expenses higher than 25% of the value of production.
- Experimental contracts with public agencies or large enterprises.
- Capital reserve higher than 50,000 euros, convertible loans or third-party investors.
- Achievement of at least one patent.
Studio Arletti & Partners provides support in opening innovative startups and establishing Limited Liability Companies in Italy.
Tax Credit and Capital Gains Exemption
An important new feature introduced by Law 162/2024 is the possibility of transforming the unused “de minimis” deduction into a tax credit.
This makes it possible to recover part of the investment made even if the investor has no tax capacity.
In addition, exemptions are provided on capital gains derived from the sale of holdings in innovative start-ups and SMEs. This is a measure that was already provided for in Decree Law 173/2021 but had not been implemented until now.
If you are a foreign entrepreneur, check out our complete guide on the Startup Visa in Italy.